Feb 1, 2018

What to Wear (and What to Avoid) When Packing for a Music Festival

by Nicole Carbone

Photo:

Collage Vintage.

There are more than a few reasons to head to a music festival. Perhaps you love the lineup, can’t say no to a good party, or just can’t get enough of the fashion scene. Whatever your reasoning, deciding on what to wear to a music festival can be tricky. The key is wearing pieces that are comfortable and practical but still chic.

This year, we urge you to skip the stereotypical skin-baring, over-the-top bohemian outfits and try a more polished look. This is the perfect occasion to test an out-of-the-box trend you might not feel comfortable wearing in your hometown. (Whether it be a fun pair of sunglasses, a cool hat, or the rainbow-stripe trend.) With dozens of festivals scheduled across the country this year, we thought we’d round up some outfit ideas to help you get the perfect look.

Remember, comfort is important here. So without further ado, we bring you our top picks for your chicest music festival yet. Think trendy meets functional.

Free People All I Got Printed Maxi Dress in Red

Free People All I Got Printed Maxi Dress in Red ~~( $168)~~ $76

An easy-to-wear sundress is a perfect piece to take you from pre-party to the headlining act.

Available in sizes 0 to 10.

Golden Goose Superstar Pink Star Low-Top Sneakers

Golden Goose Superstar Pink Star Low-Top Sneakers ($480)

Sneakers are the best shoes to wear for all-day comfort, and these accent colors are so adorable.

Available in sizes 35 EU to 41 EU.

Free People Walk the Walk Lieutenant Hat

Free People Walk the Walk Lieutenant Hat ($38)

A lightweight version of this season’s popular hat style.

Madeworn Madonna Like a Virgin Tee

Madeworn Madonna Like a Virgin Tee ($160)

How cool is this graphic tee?

Available in sizes XS to L.

We the Free Denim Midi Skirt

We the Free Denim Midi Skirt ($78)

Ditch the miniskirt and opt for this longer denim piece.

Available in sizes 24 to 31.

Ellen & James Shell Bag

Ellen & James Shell Bag ($108)

From music festivals to summer picnics, we guarantee you’ll use this bag on repeat.

Forever 21 Striped Maxi Dress

Forever 21 Striped Maxi Dress ($78)

This rainbow-stripe maxi is on trend and easy to wear. It also pairs well with a denim jacket for when temperatures start to drop.

Available in sizes 1X to 3X.

Toint Volant Valentine Top in White

Toint Volant Valentine Top in White ($132)

A chic update to your plain white tank or tee.

Available in sizes S to L.

Ále by Alessandra Sancho Hat

Ále by Alessandra Sancho Hat ($75)

Protect your face from the sun while looking flawless in this hat.

HVN Lily Polka-Dot Print Silk Slip Dress

HVN Lily Polka-Dot Print Silk Slip Dress ($445)

If you’re looking for a one-and-done approach to getting dressed, try a slip dress.

Available in sizes 0 to 10.

Leather Boots with Studs

H&M Leather Boots With Studs ($80)

Not into sneakers? These boots will spice up a simple sundress.

Available in sizes 4.5 to 10.

Urban Outfitters Grommet-Tie Striped Wrap Mini Skirt

Urban Outfitters Grommet-Tie Striped Wrap Mini Skirt ($49)

The rainbow-stripe trend in a miniskirt.

Available in sizes XS to XL.

Forever 21 Pickup Sleeve Top

Forever 21 Pickup Sleeve Top ($15)

You can pair this top with anything—from denim to a midi skirt.

Available in sizes 1X to 3X.